A Comparison of Prescribed Rigid Orthotic Devices and Athletic Taping Support Used to Modify Pronation in Runners

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of four different treatments on the control of the amount and rate of foot pronation while running. The four treatments were the reverse 8-stirrup taping technique, the low-dye taping technique, prescribed rigid orthotic devices, and no support in the running shoe. Six intercollegiate cross-country runners were filmed from the rear while running on a treadmill, and the film data were analyzed. A two-way MANOVA indicated no significant overall treatment effect for the dependent variables. A one-way ANOVA indicated that the reverse 8-stirrup taping technique significantly reduced the amount of maximum pronation when compared to shoes-no support and low-dye taping techniques. The reverse 8-stirrup also had significantly fewer degrees of total rear foot movement when compared to the low-dye taping technique. No other significant comparisons were realized. It was concluded that the reverse 8-stirrup would be as effective a treatment for excessive pronation in runners as the prescribed rigid orthotic device.